Project Runway Switches Networks

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NBC/Bravo goes to court over the move.

By Eric Goldman

Project Runway has become a big breakout hit for Bravo, helping define the cable network and leading to unexpected critical acclaim and even a prestigious Peabody award – the first ever given to a reality series. That makes it quite a big deal that the show will now be switching networks, as Variety says Lifetime will be the new home for the series, beginning this fall.

Project Runway is produced by the Weinstein Company, who have signed a new five year deal with Lifetime that has led to the move. NBC, who own Bravo, are not only less than pleased with the announcement, they're going to court over it – They have filed a suit in New York Supreme Court against the Weinstein Company.

The Weinstein's lawyer David Boies tells Variety "We believe that this lawsuit is without merit. While good for the market for lawyers, it is always unfortunate when parties try to win in court what they have lost in the marketplace."

In a statement put out by the Weinstein's, they said "Lifetime is one of the strongest cable networks in the industry, with great leadership and a true commitment to original programming. We are very excited for the many new opportunities that will now be provided to Runway and its fans and look forward to premiering the sixth season in November 2008."

Update: NBC has released the following statement regarding the Project Runway situation:

NBC Universal has continuing legal rights related to Project Runway, including a right of first refusal to future cycles of the series, which The Weinstein Company unfortunately has refused to honor. NBC Universal regrettably had no alternative but to bring legal action to enforce its rights to this program, including the right to decide whether it is in the best interest of the company to continue to air the show under the proposed financial terms.